Fundraiser sets ambitious goal

A CITY father of two has embarked on a fundraising mission which will see him running 1,500 miles this year for Help for Heroes.

Andy Southard had planned on running a half marathon per day, a total of 406 miles, during the month of May, but due to time constraints has opted for the alternative feat instead.

And he has not only upped his mileage but his fundraising target as well, from £5,000 to £10,000.

A keen runner, the 45-year-old from Heavitree said he normally runs about 1,000 miles a year, so wanted to set himself a realistic challenge.

"I wanted to push myself, and 1,500 miles is a lot to fit in, " he said.

Andy, who works as an order manager for BT, has already clocked up 50 miles this year.

The mileage will be achieved by training for and completing several events including adventure race, RockSolidRace at Escot Park this March, the Great West Run and the Commando Challenge in October.

Andy anticipates running 30 miles a week in order to ensure he stays on target to achieve the full 1,500 by the end of the year.

Andy previously explained why he was inspired to raise funds for Help for Heroes. "I'm not from a military background," he said. "But I have suffered post-traumatic stress after I was in collision with a lorry while cycling in Marsh Barton in 2000, so I know what it's like to have those symptoms and I can relate to what some injured service personnel and veterans go through.

"I want to help raise awareness of the men and women who have fought for our country and still need our help even after returning home."

Donations can be made by texting HERO86 and the amount, for example £10, to 70070.